Japanese avant-gardist Yohji Yamamoto launched his experimental signature line in 1981, as a high-end offshoot to his original Ys line, which debuted in 1972. Never one to be conventionally trendy, he shocked Paris with his crow looktextured jackets, billowing layers, and voluminous trousers, all in blackat a time when bold shoulders, vivid color palettes, and rigid shapes were the look du jour. Over the years, his androgynous suiting and deconstructed garments have influenced designers as diverse as Junya Watanabe, Jun Takahashi, and Martin Margiela. And despite his radical roots, Yamamoto has also collaborated with megasportswear brand Adidas on the street-inspired Y-3 collection since 2003.

A Part of Hearst Digital Media
ELLE participates in various affiliate marketing programs, which means we may get paid commissions on editorially chosen products purchased through our links to retailer sites.